On the recordApril 5, 2017
I stand today in support of legislation to remove the sunset date on the Veterans Choice Program and, in turn, bring continuity to our Nation's veterans currently receiving their health care in the community through the Choice Program. Although the program is not perfect, it did provide our Nation's veterans with an unprecedented choice in where they seek their health care and assisted the VA in reducing the appointment wait times backlog. While my colleagues and I on the House Veterans' Affairs Committee work to streamline and reform the VA's in-community care programs, it is critical that we pass S. 544 to extend the Veterans Choice Program beyond the August 7 sunset date. This will provide help to veterans seeking long-term care through the Choice Program and help meet our Nation's obligations to our veterans who have sacrificed so much in defense of our freedom. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Roe for his leadership on this matter.
